Adolescence is a time of growth and change especially for teenage girls. Physical, emotional and psychological changes happen fast and furious due to hormonal changes. This is a biological process that happens to all of us from 12-17 years old.
It’s a time of blooming as your body slowly becomes an adult. But it’s not a smooth sail and adolescent girls face a lot of challenges as they navigate puberty. Let’s check out all the changes your body goes through.
Hormonal Changes
Puberty
Adolescence marks the beginning of puberty, a time of rapid physical growth and huge hormonal changes. This process happens between 10-19 years old and is when secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive organs start to develop. For girls, the start of their periods is a clear indication of this.
A series of hormonal changes orchestrated by the endocrine system starts with a surge of oestrogen and progesterone, maturing the reproductive organs and menstrual cycle. These hormones not only affect physical attributes like breast development and menstrual patterns but also emotional well being (mood swings).
Changes and Challenges to Expect
The hormonal changes start the many changes your body will go through. There will be many signs that your body is entering puberty. Some of these signs are:
- Acne - Caused by overactive glands in your skin, the sudden increase in pimples you have is normal. Don’t touch them to avoid scarring or making them worse.
- Weight fluctuations - The increase in hormone production will change your body shape. You’ll gain weight around your thighs and hips.
- Breast development - You may notice your breasts have started to develop. Sometimes one will grow faster than the other which is normal. If you’re unsure about buying a bra, talk to an adult you trust to help you buy a bra for you.
- Unwanted hair growth - One of the surprises of puberty will be the thickening or growth of hair in new areas like under your armpits and around your genital area. If you feel like shaving the hair as it grows longer or curlier, ask an adult to teach you how to do it safely.
Because of these changes, teenagers may experience:
- Mood swings - The hormones in your body will create imbalances. These imbalances in your body can suddenly make you feel bad without any reason.
- Anxiety - Many teens going through puberty will feel isolated or unable to connect with their friends. Your classmates may also be going through these changes and withdraw as well.
- Depression - The overwhelming emotions, changes and venturing into the unknown can be too much sometimes. Depression among teens going through puberty is more common than people think and sometimes expect.
Where Does Ayurveda Fit In?
Ayurveda understands the connection between the menstrual cycle and the doshas within the body. Fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone can throw the Vata, Pitta and Kapha doshas out of balance and give rise to imbalances and health issues.
Adolescence is a time of navigating the ups and downs of hormonal changes. A holistic approach that acknowledges the cyclical nature of the menstrual cycle is required. Ayurveda has the answers to balance and vitality through individualised lifestyle practices of diet, exercise, stress management and herbal remedies.
What Do We Know?
Puberty is a process of change. It can be a rough ride and bring many unwanted baggage along with it. But it’s a natural and inevitable process and one that everyone in the world goes through. By adopting individualised lifestyle practices and getting to know your body better you can build resilience and power through this life transition.
Don’t bottle up your feelings and talk to someone about them regularly. It’s a confusing time in your life; your body is changing, your friends are changing, your emotions are changing. So what else can help your journey than a helping hand from someone you trust?
